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Robert Kubica is running out of options for a 2018 Formula 1 comeback. Photo by LAT PHOTOGRAPHIC

Robert Kubica F1 comeback strikes out on Williams seat

Sergey Sirotkin and Daniil Kvyat are the frontrunners to replace Felipe Massa

December 11, 2017

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Robert Kubica will not return to Formula 1 with Williams in 2018.

In fact, former Renault test driver Sergey Sirotkin is now the favorite to take the seat. This ends months of sensational rumors concerning an improbable return to the sport for Kubica, who has been sidelined since injuring his right arm in a 2011 rally crash. Initially, Renault was believed to be in the market for the Polish veteran but, after confirming a line-up of Nico Hulkenberg and Carlos Sainz Jr, the opportunity of testing for Williams arose.

Having previously tested the 2014 Williams entry, Kubica was joined by Sirotkin and Paul di Resta for a post-season test in Abu Dhabi as the former championship winning team continued their search for Lance Stroll’s 2018 teammate. Williams said all along that its decision would be based on performance, with data gathered from the Abu Dhabi test suggesting that the 22-year-old Russian is the strongest candidate.

Helping Sirotkin’s cause is the $20 million in sponsorship money which he would bring to the team from Russia’s SMP Racing.

Despite Kubica impressing in the test, the Pole isn’t even viewed as a second choice for the seat, with former Toro Rosso and Red Bull driver Daniil Kvyat believed to be the fall-back option.

Williams Head of Vehicle Performance Rob Smedley said after the season finale that the team hoped to make an announcement on their line-up before the new year.

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